National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Culinary Practice Exam

Which herb is typically used in a classic béchamel sauce?

1. Thyme

2. Basil

3. Bay leaf

4. Parsley

The correct answer is: Bay leaf

In classic béchamel sauce, the typical herb used is the bay leaf. Béchamel is a fundamental white sauce made from a roux of butter and flour, combined with milk. The addition of bay leaf imparts a subtle aroma and depth of flavor to the sauce, enhancing its overall taste without overpowering the delicate nature of the béchamel. While thyme, basil, and parsley can be used in various sauces or dishes, they are not traditional components of a classic béchamel. Thyme is more commonly associated with savory dishes, while basil is often used in tomato-based sauces or Mediterranean cuisine. Parsley provides a fresh flavor and is commonly used as a garnish or in herb mixtures but is not typically infused in béchamel. Therefore, bay leaf stands out as the herb that aligns with the classic preparation of béchamel sauce.